November 27, 2023 UTSA names Institute for Economic Development in honor of founder, Jude Valdez
UTSA has announced it will name its Institute for Economic Development in honor of its founder, Jude Valdez ’72, to recognize his nearly 40-year tenure with the university and his generosity for establishing the Jude Valdez Economic Development Excellence Fund. The endowment will directly support the Jude Valdez Institute for Economic Development and its work driving business development at the local, state, national and international levels.
With a background in business and economic development, Valdez served in academic and leadership roles at UTSA, culminating in his service as the vice president for community services when he retired from the university in 2018.
“I’m so pleased to honor Jude Valdez with this naming, as his passion for higher education and life-long dedication to advancing UTSA has transformed the university’s position as a leader in economic development,” said President Taylor Eighmy. “His ambitious vision for the institute positioned the university as an invaluable asset for the growth and prosperity of our city, state and region, and it’s only appropriate that we honor him in this way for his steadfast leadership.”
Valdez joined UTSA in 1979 as the executive director of what is now known as the Carlos Alvarez College of Business(ACOB). He also served as a faculty member in the college for more than 30 years.
I’m so pleased to honor Jude Valdez with this naming, as his passion for higher education and life-long dedication to advancing UTSA.
